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[BUSINESS] · Germany · 9 sources

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Volkswagen plans 16 billion euro restructuring and potential job cuts

Volkswagen is preparing a massive restructuring plan that could cost up to 16 billion euros. The company faces significant pressure from Chinese competition, American tariffs, and excess capacity in Europe. The plan may involve cutting up to 60,000 jobs globally, with approximately 10 billion euros allocated for severance and social measures. Additionally, the company is considering the future of four German plants: Emden, Zwickau, Hannover, and Neckarsulm.

In response to these developments, the IG Metall union has unanimously decided to invoke a review clause in the 2024 future tariff agreement. The union is demanding that management uphold previous commitments regarding investments in new models and modern production technologies. IG Metall regional director Thorsten Gröger emphasized that the company must remain reliable if it expects concessions from employees. Volkswagen management has welcomed the move and expects discussions to begin within the current quarter.

The crisis also impacts Volkswagen's broader social and economic footprint. The company is considering selling its stakes in football clubs VfB Stuttgart and Bayern München. Meanwhile, the company's financial performance has lagged behind rivals like Toyota and Hyundai, with Volkswagen reporting a lower operating margin in the first half of the year.

Entities

Arne Meiswinkel · Germany · IG Metall · Michael Kretschmer · Thorsten Gröger · Volkswagen

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